In a major step toward improving the country’s emergency response system, Nigeria has launched a specialized training program in Lagos to strengthen its aeromedical transport capabilities. The initiative, spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development in collaboration with key health and security stakeholders, is aimed at building local capacity for emergency air medical services, ultimately reducing the nation’s dependence on foreign professionals for critical care evacuations.

Why Aeromedical Transport Matters in Nigeria

Aeromedical transport, commonly known as air ambulance services, plays a vital role in saving lives during medical emergencies, particularly in regions with poor road networks or during disasters where quick evacuation is required. In Nigeria, challenges such as limited trained personnel, inadequate infrastructure, and high costs of foreign assistance have long hampered the development of a sustainable aeromedical system.

“In the past, we’ve had to rely on foreign-trained professionals and outsourced services for air medical evacuations. This has proven costly and unsustainable,” said Dr. Musa Lawal, a health systems consultant with the African Emergency Health Network.

Objectives of the Lagos Training Program

The new program, hosted at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, seeks to train doctors, nurses, paramedics, and flight crew members on the protocols, safety standards, and technical requirements involved in airlifting patients during emergencies.

Key features include:

• Simulation-based training using mock aircraft and emergency scenarios.

• Courses on aero-physiology, patient stabilization, and in-flight critical care.

• Collaboration with international aeromedical instructors and aviation bodies like the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

According to Capt. Ayo Makinde, a flight safety expert involved in the program, “This initiative aligns with Nigeria’s aviation safety roadmap and health emergency response goals. It’s about saving lives with speed and precision.”

Reducing Reliance on Foreign Expertise

Historically, emergency airlift services in Nigeria have been largely dominated by foreign operators due to a skills gap in medical aviation. The new program aims to close this gap by equipping Nigerians with the technical and clinical know-how needed to perform these critical missions.

“We’re building a workforce that can operate confidently under pressure, whether in peacetime or during a national crisis,” emphasized Dr. Funmi Oladapo, Director of Health Emergency Services at the Ministry of Health.

This move not only enhances national preparedness but also reduces the financial burden of outsourcing such services abroad—a cost often passed on to patients and their families.

Strategic Importance Amid Rising Insecurity

The investment in aeromedical capacity is also timely, as insecurity and natural disasters continue to strain Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure. From terrorist attacks in the North-East to floods and road accidents in the South, the need for swift, mobile healthcare delivery has never been more urgent.

In conflict zones, air evacuations can be the difference between life and death. Strengthening internal capacity ensures quicker response times and improved survival rates, especially in hard-to-reach areas.

What This Means for Nigerians

For the average citizen, this development signals hope. With a functional aeromedical service:

• Lives can be saved faster during medical emergencies.

• Disaster response becomes more efficient.

• And local health professionals are empowered through training and employment.

A Step Toward Self-Reliance

The Lagos training initiative is more than just a program, it’s a symbol of Nigeria’s resolve to strengthen its emergency healthcare ecosystem. By developing homegrown expertise in aeromedical operations, the country is taking a decisive step toward self-reliance, faster emergency responses, and a healthier, safer future for its citizens.

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Last Updated on May 21, 2025 by kingstar